October 29, 2015

Subaru recently revealed a collection of legendary rally cars in Los Angeles at Global Rallycross and Subiefest events. These cars tell winning Subaru rally stories. From record-breaking models to championship-winning icons, this collection covers the globe and exemplifies the breadth and diversity of the Subaru rally legacy.

2015 Isle of Man Subaru WRX STI

This 2015 Subaru WRX STI piloted by Mark Higgins set a new lap record of the fabled 37-mile Isle of Man TT Road Course with an average lap speed of 116.470 and a time of 19.26. This breaks the previous record of 115.36 that was set in 2012 by Mark Higgins in a 2010 Subaru WRX STI.

This U.S.-spec 2015 WRX STI is stock with the exception of an FIA-spec roll cage, racing seat and harness, fire suppression system, and modified springs and dampers to handle the sustained high speeds and changing conditions of the course. The Subaru WRX STI also features Dunlop Direzza tires and a high-decibel straight exhaust for crowd safety. The speed limiter also was removed from the car.

2012 Subaru Impreza WRX STI S206 NBR Challenge Model

The 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX STI S206 NBR Challenge model was released in Japan to commemorate the class win at the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race. This limited-edition model is accented by a carbon roof, original dry carbon rear spoiler, and clad with the S206 Nürburgring Challenge badge. The engine is exclusive for the S206, the weight balance between the piston, connecting rod, and crankshaft is optimized to enhance the rev feel. Along with a ball bearing turbocharger, ECU (Engine Control Unit) with STI tuning, and a sports muffler with lowered back pressure exhaust – the S206 produces a total of 315 horsepoer and a peak torque of 318 lb-ft.

2004 Subaru WRX STI

The 2004 Impreza WRX STi is an ultra-high-performance, all-wheel drive sedan. Based on the critically acclaimed Subaru Impreza WRX, this Impreza WRX STi is completely re-engineered to provide world-class sports car levels of acceleration, handling, and braking performance. The Impreza WRX STi is powered by a turbocharged and intercooled 2.5-liter DOHC boxer engine producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of peak torque, teamed exclusively to a 6-speed manual transmission. Power is transferred to all four wheels via a sophisticated Subaru All-Wheel Drive system designed to optimize performance in all conditions.

1999 Subaru Impreza 22B STi Rally Car

In 1998 Subaru produced a wide-body coupe WRX STi named the 22B STi from March through August of that year. It was to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Subaru, as well as the third consecutive manufacturer’s title for Subaru in the FIA WRC (1995-1997). All 400 Japanese units sold within one hour of being released for sale. The 22B boasts a 280-hp 2212cc 4-cylinder boxer engine and widened body from the Peter Stevens-designed WRC car. During assembly, a WRX Type R chassis was taken off the assembly line for upgrading. Modifications included a unique hood, front and rear fenders, adjustable rear wing, Bilstein suspension, red-painted Brembo brakes, special tires and rims, and a ceramic-disc clutch.

1996 Subaru Impreza 555 Rally Car

The 555 Rally Car was used on the auto show circuit to promote the launch of the Impreza 2.5RS Coupe in the 1998 model year. It is a WRX STi Type RA (Rally Applicant) that was often used as the basis for a rally car built by privateers and non-factory teams to compete in World Rally Championship (WRC) Group N competition. It features a 270-hp 2.0-litre turbocharged boxer 4-cylinder engine. It is displayed in non-555 livery to comply with the ban of tobacco related advertising in certain countries that were part of the WRC racing circuit. The hash marks, which themselves are stylized images of the famous 555 logo, were used to comply with the ban while still alluding to the cigarette manufacturer’s sponsorship of the WRC team.

July 09, 2015

The Susquehannock Trail Performance Rally (STPR) wasn’t a race to be taken lightly and crucial title points were up for grabs.

Mathematically, Subaru Rally Team USA (SRT USA) could secure the Rally America National Championship at STPR. But even with a 330-hp Subaru WRX STI and a four-time Rally America Championship driver and co-driver, anything can happen out on the stages.

Since debuting the new 2015 WRX STI rally car at Sno*Drift, driver David Higgins and co-driver Craig Drew have been leaving the competition in the dust each race.

Heading into this rally, the #75 team held a 26-point lead over their nearest competitor and had won the last 10 races. Could they keep up the blazing pace on the dirt and gravel of Pennsylvania? Higgins has won at STPR four times in the last 13 years, putting experience on his side.

Day one started out dry, dusty, and hot. The #75 team came out fast, finishing 17 seconds ahead in Stage 1. After Stage 3, they held nearly a minute lead.

The crowd and teams moved to finish the night at the Tioga County Fairgrounds for the Super Special – but Mother Nature had other plans. Severe storms brought the day to an abrupt end and changed the course dynamics for the next day.

The dirt and gravel were wet to start day two. The sun dried out sections as the day went on, changing the conditions once again. But neither wet, dry, sunny, nor dusty could hold back the duo as built their lead stage by stage.

The final result was a spectacular finish five-and-a-half minutes ahead of the nearest competitor. But the best number of the rally was that 1st-place finish by the team, securing the Rally America National Championship title for Higgins and Drew.

More importantly, it was a record-breaking championship run, giving them their fifth consecutive National Championship title and edging out Travis Pastrana’s four consecutive championship titles.

And in bold fashion, the Series.Hyperblue debuted in front of one of the largest Subaru enthusiast crowds ever. The vibrant blue BRZ and WRX STI stood out in a sea of thousands of other models.

“As soon as the crowd parted the color just popped. It's a playful blue, and I like that Subaru is expanding to offer more colors.”-Justin Williams, WBM attendee

These special edition models are more than a color.

The cool blue will turn heads and make you the envy of the neighborhood, but the posh comfy seats give you comfort for the long journeys together. The electric blue accents will give you an adrenaline rush every time you approach the car.

“I loved the color! I'm all about the different colors ...especially since I'll be in the market for a new one within a year or so.”-Allisa Hiland, WBM attendee

The black badges provide a unique and distinctive back-end look, like no Subaru model before it.

The sleek black wheels are more than eye-candy. They are designed to become one with the road.

And a true WRX STI wing to set you free on the road less traveled. You are destined to soar.

“I think it finally allows people in a Subaru to show off and let the world know they're driving something special that shouldn't necessarily blend in with all the silver and black econo boxes out there.”--Robert Champion, WBM promoter

April 29, 2015

STI Performance Concept

When the stark white cloth revealed the STI Performance Concept at the 2015 NYIAS, you knew it was destined for greatness.

First glance led to a double-take. It resembled the BRZ GT300 that debuted in 2011 and serves as current contender in the Japanese Super GT Series. (Read about the Subaru BRZ GT300.)

But the stunning beauty has more than meets the eye. Cosmetically, there is the massive rear wing, bucket racing seats, carbon fiber trim, and all the STI fixings, but the secret of the concept is what the future holds for Subaru and STI and their performance heritage.

The concept signifies a plan for expansion of the STI brand in the U.S. – beyond the current WRX STI and STI performance parts.

The first thing we will see is the replacement of Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT) aftermarket parts with STI-engineered parts. And this year, as Subaru Rally Team USA takes the brand-new 2015 WRX STI rally and rallycross cars to the competition, you will notice additional STI parts and presence.

As we look for more initiatives to come from Subaru and STI, the possibilities are endless.

Kicking the Tires with SRT USA Driver Bucky Lasek

In the signature bright orange color of the #81 and Bucky Lasek, the 2015 Subaru WRX STI Global Rallycross car made a bold debut at the 2015 NYIAS. This car is a complete 360 from the 5-Door model the team has raced the last three years.

I walked around the car with Bucky Lasek as we inspected the car he has yet to drive (teammate Sverre Isachsen took the #11 for initial testing last week).

The WRX STI features a wide body kit. A noticeable impact this will have is that the wheels will have extra coverage from the kit lines that extend outward and flow to the back. This may help with some of the impacts Lasek received last year, which resulted in significant door and frame damage.

While walking around the car, Lasek reveals that he’s excited about the new changes and upgrades to the car. He expects the gearbox to be quicker, and the modifications to the chassis and mechanical grip will make a big difference "this car is going to be insane,” exclaims Lasek.The team also has increased support from STI with additional engineered parts.

The GRC will see some new teams and new faces this year. DirtFish is entering two cars in the GRC Lite Series. Ford and Chip Ganassi are bringing in two new cars to compete against SRT USA in the Supercar class. In response to this, Lasek comments, “Bring on the new guys. I will give them a whooping,” noting that it’s not easy to drive an AWD car and the dirt should be a challenge to the unfamiliar drivers.

The first GRC race, schedule for May 31 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, will be the true test of new cars, teams, and drivers.

March 06, 2015

As I walked around the Subaru-designated area of the 2015 Chicago Auto Show, I traveled back through Subaru history from the past few years.

It started with the XV Crosstrek; the tangerine orange color took me back three years to the introduction of this new model. The orange color screams “look at me,” but the unique wheel pattern is what sets it apart. And after that came the can’t-miss-me green of the Hybrid.

The Forester XT also has undergone dramatic changes. In 2013, the distinctive scoop was missing from the hood and the air intake was rerouted through an opening above the grille. I was fortunate to have many occasions to drive this stealth beast; my favorite was with Subaru Rally Team USA (SRT USA) driver Bucky Lasek. (Read about my drive with Bucky.)

Then there is the BRZ, the first non-all-wheel drive vehicle produced by Subaru in almost 20 years. The rear-wheel drive introduced a fun sports car to the lineup. Featuring the 200-hp SUBARU BOXER engine, this road master offers excellent handing, and road-gripping performance.

Next up, the legendary WRX. Getting a facelift for 2015, this powerhouse now offers an optional Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with paddle shifters.

On display was the record-breaking Isle of Man WRX STI piloted by Mark Higgins. This nearly stock car “rocket” hit speeds of 160 mph and broke Higgins’ own previous record of 19:57 with a time of 19:15. (Read more about Higgins and Isle of Man.)

A sibling to this WRX STI was debuted by SRT USA at the 2015 Sno*Drift Rally in January and David Higgins and Craig Drew commandingly won the event. Then a new wide-body version was showcased at Rally in the 100 Acre Wood in February and performed outstandingly in the harshest winter conditions that rally has seen, allowing SRT USA to finish in a dominating 1st place.

EyeSight technology was a buzz in the Subaru area. Of course, I couldn’t help but share my personal stories about EyeSight with curious onlookers. This technology features a set of cameras that detect larger objects in front of the vehicle. With cruise control set, the system will help keep you at a minimum distance from the car in front of you if it slows down. At any speed, EyeSight will apply brakes if there is an object in front of your moving vehicle. I’ve experienced this on many occasions, including a pedestrian jumping out in front of me, a deer running in my path, and freeway traffic reducing speed significantly.

The latest innovation revealed this year is SUBARU STARLINK. This technology allows you to connect your phone to your Subaru, making your music choices nearly infinite. Pandora®, Aha™, iHeartRadio®, whatever your preference, there are many reasons to crank up the tunes as you enjoy your ride.1

What’s in store from Subaru for the next few years?

Motorsports

SRT USA driver/co-driver team of David Higgins and Craig Drew are on course to win their fifth consecutive Rally America National Championship.

Travis Pastrana will make rally and rallycross appearances beginning midseason.

With Bucky Lasek and Sverre Isachsen at the wheel for rallycross, we expect to see more exciting door-to-door racing and fights for podium spots. We also expect that they will debut new livery based on the 2015 WRX STI.

And will there be another Isle Man attempt? Or a Mt. Washington record-breaking run by SRT USA?Stay tuned this season as we follow SRT USA.

Vehicles

We know that the Impreza will be produced at Subaru of Indiana Automotive beginning in 2016.

Consumer demand for the BRZ to have more horsepower has been constant since its debut. Will there be a change to the model? We’ve seen sketches of a BRZ convertible. Follow Drive Performance magazine as we cover what the future holds for this model.

The 7-passenger Tribeca has left the lineup. Fuji Heavy Industries President,Yasuyuki Yoshinaga, has stated a new 7-passenger vehicle will be coming at some point.

Special editions: We’ve seen a Legacy Sport, WRX STI Launch Edition, and a BRZ Series.Blue. What will be the next in the lineup?

Technology

What will be the next technology innovation unveiled?

We’ve see the first Subaru hybrid. What will come to us next?

– Melissa Carlson

1 Pandora is a registered trademark of Pandora Media, Inc.Compatible smartphone and free Aha app required. For Aha to operate, latest version of Aha application and optional integrated audio and navigation system unit required. Data provided by smartphone is displayed on navigation screen. Some state laws prohibit the operation of handheld electronic devices while operating a vehicle. Smartphone apps should only be launched when vehicle is safely parked. Aha is a trademark of HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated. Your wireless carrier’s rates may apply.iHeartRadio is a registered trademark of Clear Channel.

February 16, 2015

Each year, a group of Subaru enthusiasts gathers for the 48HRS of Tristate Charity Drive. The 1,000-mile journey reunites old friends and welcomes new ones for three days of driving and camaraderie – all to raise money for a great cause!

Taking part in the 48HRS of Tristate Charity Drive has been on my bucket list for years. I’ve reported on the event from a distance, but never participated. Suddenly, there I was nearly 1,000 miles from home at Subaru of America headquarters in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, getting briefed by event organizer Ted Drotleff on the morning of our first leg.

Female PowerMy co-driver, Melissa Carlson, and I buckled into our borrowed 2015 Subaru Legacy. Armed with extra wiper fluid, trail mix, and matching floral travel mugs, we were ready to roll with the big dogs. Our journey this day would take us from New Jersey to Utica, New York.

Melissa took the wheel first. I fired up our CB radio – our only means of communication with the group – and began bantering in my best CB-ese. Mike Paisan, our group leader, expertly guided our caravan of Subaru vehicles along the snowy route. What started out as highways turned to scenic byways and twisting, turning back roads. Spirits were high and the views became increasingly more spectacular.

Hammer DownFinally, it was my turn to drive. I prayed I could keep up, but as it turned out I had a lead foot and had to watch my speed. (Who knew?) The miles flashed by in a blur. Our cushy 2015 Legacy – which raised some eyebrows initially – performed flawlessly alongside the more performance-enhanced Subaru models.

Over the next two days, we traveled through the Catskills, Adirondacks, and Saratoga Springs, New York, stopping along the way for food and sleep. (Note: When one person has to make a pit stop, the whole group has to stop.)

Road WarriorsSlick roads, hairpin turns, and freezing rain in the Catskills didn’t stop us. On top of its agile handling and Subaru All-Wheel Drive, our Legacy came equipped with Subaru EyeSight®1 Driver Assist Technology. The system alerted us when we strayed from our lane and (once) when I came too close to a vehicle stopped ahead of us. We also had the opportunity to test the adaptive cruise control, which not only maintained our cruising speed on the highways, but it also used braking technology to maintain a minimum set distance from the vehicle in front of us. I felt safe, which allowed me to be more adventurous.

Along the WayMemorable moments include seeing the majestic Adirondack Mountains cloaked in snow; rocky roadside waterfalls frozen blue; a lovely, haunted hotel in Utica; enormous Blue Mountain Lake; and our wicked-cool parade of Subaru vehicles. Getting to know the drivers inside those vehicles was my favorite part of the trip.

Everyone Has a StoryNothing beats sitting around a table with a passionate group of Subaru drivers. The 48HRS crew came from all walks of life – lawyers, doctors, concession workers, teachers, auto technicians, veterans, and more. Some traveled alone, while others brought their whole families.

Our conversations revolved around Subaru vehicles, modifications, and favorite misadventures. We also talked about our kids, jobs, and lives. Occasionally I found myself as the third wheel in a conversation so technical it was like listening to a foreign language. I’d just smile and throw in an “ooo” here and an “ahh” there when it seemed appropriate. I learned a lot and I’m hungry for more.

Cruising for a CauseIn the end, our three days of driving and camaraderie raised nearly $30,000 by the group to help fund childhood cancer research. It’s a great feeling! Melissa won our competition to raise the most donations and she is almost done gloating. This Subaru event forever holds new meaning for me.

I am now a part of the 48HRS family and cherish my place there. Together we made a difference.

--Jennifer Fischer, Subaru Insider

The 48HRS of Tristate Charity Drive welcomes drivers of all abilities. Interested in joining the next event? Learn more.

February 04, 2015

Each year a group of Subaru enthusiasts comes together, fundraises, and drives for charity. The 2015 event raised more than $25,000 benefiting childhood cancer research, and over the last 14 years the group has donated more the $250,000 to various charities.

What started as a 48-hour informal event has expanded into a three-day gathering that drove the roads less traveled, creating the ultimate all-wheel driving experience in a Subaru.

This year, 40 vehicles started the journey together at Subaru of America headquarters in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, heading into Pennsylvania and then into New York, traveling 800 miles over the three days.

The journey is about sharing the passion for Subaru: a tuner, racer, soccer mom, city kid, and everything in-between. Through it I learned the stories of owners and their Subaru.

“Our family's first love is to help this organization with the fight against cancer. I have family, friends, and friends' children that have had cancer. Some lost their battle, but most of all, some beat this disease. We, of course, love to drive our Subaru, but it is rewarding to see how many people care.” – Beth

"I love to support a great cause, especially for the children. I donate regularly, but rarely would dedicate the time to do the fundraising. Since this event is related to driving (near and dear to my heart), I actually put forth the effort to do so.

"There were great roads, beautiful scenery, I met some great people, and walked away with many new friends." – Arnold

Rallycross

Heading into their third year of GRC competition, driver’s Bucky Lasek and Sverre Isachsen on pace to have another successful year. Last year the rallycross team experienced the most final appearances, podiums, and wins in its history.

They are set to run the 2015 rallycross version of the WRX STI beginning in May. Check back for details and photos as they head into testing.

December 22, 2014

This year, 585,720 Americans are expected to die of cancer, making it the second leading cause of death in the U.S.1

We all know someone affected by cancer, who has courageously fought the battle, is currently undergoing treatment, is in remission, has had life cut short, and has a family turned upside down. There are so many stories out there and too many that will not have a happy ending.

My story: I carry a scar as a reminder of my skin cancer removed a few years ago. I currently stand bedside of my aunt as she is slowly losing her battle with ovarian cancer.

Five for a Drive

What began as five guys getting together and taking to the back roads in their Subaru vehicles has grown into an annual event that features three days of driving, camaraderie, and supporting a charity.In an effort to help find a cure for cancer, the 48HRS of Tristate Charity Drive annually gathers Subaru enthusiasts to raise donations in the best way possible – driving their Subaru.

14th Annual Drive

The cause for this year’s drive: funding research to find a cure for childhood cancer, the No. 1 cause of disease-related deaths for children.2

The charity of choice: Alex’s Lemonade Stand. Last year the 48HRS Drive raised more than $30,000 for this charity, donated on behalf of Caitlin Dickey, a 9-year-old who lost her fight and cousin of 48HRS driver Mark Sims.

This year Melissa Carlson from Drive Performance magazine and Jen Fischer from Subaru Insider newsletter are teaming up to join the drive, and more importantly, raise funds for this great cause.

The drive will begin January 16, 2015, at Subaru of America Headquarters in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and take us on a three-day, 1,000-mile journey through the Adirondacks of New York.

Get Behind the Wheel

In friendly competition, we have formed two teams (#DrivePerformance and #SubaruInsider) and will battle to raise the most donations - go #DrivePerformance – payback, Jen :).

December 05, 2014

Subaru Rally Team USA (SRT USA) went into the final round of the Red Bull Global Rallycross with momentum from their 1st-place finish at Seattle. The team had achieved the coveted reward for their hard work and countless hours of preparation.

Now they found themselves in Las Vegas. Could they reach the podium again?

The Venue: the LINQ Hotel and Casino, site of the world’s largest observation tower

First Impressions

The Joker Lap ran inside of the turn exiting the jump and gave a significant advantage as long as clean lines were held.

Several hairpins made for intense door-to-door racing.

The sweeping dirt section prior to jump was a prime spot for passing, and maintaining tight drive lines was important.

Good to Go

Sverre Isachsen (#11) and Bucky Lasek (#81) had good practice rounds. The only course issue was the fine dirt that stuck in the wheels and crevices, leaving a gray hue on the cars and in the garage. The mechanics worked hard unclogging the parts to help prevent the dirt from causing mechanical mishaps on course.

The #11 car had a sensor that went bad, affecting shifting and later breaking a driveshaft after a heavy landing. But still Isachsen was able to power through the issues and qualified 4th fastest.

Lasek and Isachsen translated their fast practice times into top-five heat finishes. The drivers and their Subaru WRX STI cars were ready to contend for the podium.

It’s Showtime

In a tight battle for the transferring spots, Lasek made a daring move on the outside of the leader in the dirt section prior to entering the jump to snag the top spot and ultimately the semifinal win. He would transfer automatically and then start from the front row.

Isachsen was unable to finish in a transfer spot, leaving him to fight for a spot in the LCQ. The eight-car LCQ was only four laps long and the top four finishers would advance to the final.

Starting on the inside front row, Isachsen showed his notorious Viking warrior style, commanding the inside of Turn 1 and taking the lead, and driving his #11 to win the LCQ.

All In

As the sun went down, the bright lights of the city filled the sky. With the overall title being up for grabs, it was sure to be an intense race. In true rallycross form, sparks were flying by the first corner.

A clean start by Lasek put him in position to take Turn 1 in 2nd place and just to the outside of the lead car. A dive-in by a competitor into Lasek’s drive line sent them both careening into the outside tire barrier and red flagging the race.

The drivers lined up again: Lasek returned to the front row, his competitor starting from the back – a penalty for causing the contact. The restart was clean and the battle was on.

Lasek fought hard to keep the pack behind him and earn a spot on the podium, achieving him a 3rd-place finish.

From the back of the 10-car grid, Isachsen battled with the middle of the pack, providing some deflection to help keep the competition occupied behind his teammate Lasek. Isachsen produced a respectable 5th-place finish, but as one team, a podium finish for one car is celebrated by all.